Allspice is a dried berry. It is very important in many cuisines around the world including Caribbean and Middle Eastern foods. In the west, it is usually used in desserts but is also a main ingredient in barbecue sauce and chili and an important spice for making sausage. It is also the main ingredient in Jerk seasoning. It can be used as a marinade, mulling spices, stews, cakes, puddings, ice cream. Can be purchased whole or ground. You can grind your own in a coffee grinder.